1793 MS 64 Brown NGC. Short 7 in the date, with long ribbons
and stems. No period after AMERICA. B-4, C-4, R.3. Ex: Dawson. The
B-4 is often considered to be the commonest variety of this first
year issue, but our experience has it showing up less often than
the B-3. The 1793 half cent is perhaps one of the most popular and
widely collected American coins, as it represents the first year of
production at the minting facility in Philadelphia as well as the
first issue of the smallest denomination of U.S. coinage. Few
specimens have survived in higher grades due to heavy usage in
circulation over many years.
The surfaces on this impressive uncirculated example are medium
brown with glimpses of faded mint color just noticeable about the
date and LIBERTY. There is very little evidence of die rust on the
obverse, a fairly common trait of the variety. The devices are
perfectly centered and boldly struck in all areas. A terrific piece
of early copper from the Andre Dawson collection. Population: 1 in
64, none finer (6/98). (NGC ID# 2222, PCGS# 1000)